We often spend much of our time and effort making interior alterations and improvements to our homes. This is usually at the expense of the exterior, which is ordinarily neglected and overlooked. However, the exterior is a reflection of what’s inside. That is why curb appeal is so important. Even the most minute detail can adversely impact your curb appeal. Here is what can negatively impact curb appeal and what you can do to fix it.
Why is curb appeal important?
Quite frankly first impressions making a lasting impact. Remember curb appeal is the first impression of your home. This can be a huge factor when it comes to selling your home. Curb appeal can essentially help prove the value of your home. Regardless of your motive, you should take pride in your home’s exterior.
The benefits of curb appeal can also extend beyond your property line. This can contribute to great relationships with neighbours and an extension of increased value to the area.
Improving curb appeal
Nothing is too small to be negatively impacting your curb appeal. Avoid procrastinating and carry out improvements immediately. Here are a few curb appeal tasks you should improve now:
1. Undermaintaining your exterior
Even the smallest detail or seemingly insignificant item can be the first sign of neglect for your curb appeal. Therefore it goes without saying that one of the most important aspects of curb appeal is maintenance. Simple tasks such as replacing older light fixtures or light bulbs that are burned out can be a really simple way to update the look while increasing appeal. Additionally a fresh coat of paint on the front door can give the home a nice new look, as well as protection from the outdoor elements. These details are very small but actually, make a big difference.
2. Poor landscaping
An unkempt yard can have a negative impact on your curb appeal. Uncut grass, overgrown trees, and unmaintained bushes will take away from the beauty of your home. Simple tasks such as trimming shrubs and hedges can instantly change the look of your front yard.
You can engage the services of a landscaping contractor if you’re having trouble with your yard maintenance.
3. Cluttered front lawns
Clutter is a big no-no both to the interior and exterior of a home. If your front lawn décor is mainly made up of children’s toys and yard supplies then it’s time to get organised and find a place for them.
Tidying up the exterior will definitely help improve appeal. By extension tidying is inclusive of trimming overgrown trees or bushes, rolling up hoses on a reel, tucking away bikes and other outdoor toys and clutter, and keeping up yard clean-up in general.
4. Not incorporating trends
Just like your interior, there are certain trends that apply to curb appeal. Incorporating modern and current trends into your outdoor décor is an easy way to make a lasting impression. Items to consider include:
- updated house numbers
- signature front doors
These items are sure to give a home personality.
5. Underutilising landscape lighting
Curb appeal is not restricted to day time. By using landscape lighting, you can highlight the uniqueness of your home, even at night. If you’re after appeal and ambience then exterior lighting will do the trick.
Two cost effective ways you can enhance your curb appeal at night is with path lighting and accent lights. These will highlight features like trees and pathways that can bring additional beauty at night.
